José Manuel Barroso, President of the EC, received Aníbal Cavaco Silva, President of Portugal. Discussions focused on the economic situation in Portugal and in Europe, and the progress achieved by the Economic Adjustment Programme. Aníbal Cavaco Silva thanked the President for his efforts in supporting Portugal in its endeavours to overcome the economic crisis.During the joint press conference José Manuel Barroso announced an agreement between the EC, the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the Portuguese authorities to facilitate EIB's funding for the country's small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The President then praised the actions of the Portuguese authorities and the political and social consensus in the country. Furthermore, he reaffirmed his commitment to support the Portuguese government through the difficult period of economic reform and adjustment, with a view to ensure that Portugal emerges from the programme with its public finances in order, its economy more competitive and better placed to grow and create jobs.The two Presidents eventually addressed the employment situation in Portugal, in particular the situation of the young and long-term unemployed and the fight against unemployment. José Manuel Barroso also explained how the EU was planning to tackle youth unemployment, a top priority on its agenda.